Preparing for surgery can be daunting. One of the first significant steps in your journey is the consultation with the surgeon, a conversation where you both discuss your goals and what steps can be taken to meet them. Being well-prepared and informed will not only help you feel more confident and comfortable but also feel empowered as you approach your gender-affirming surgery.
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your consultation:
Before Your Consultation:
-
- Research and Prepare Questions:
- Read all the information packets that your surgeon’s office has provided for you. Many information sheets are designed to give you answers to the most common questions and can help you shape more nuanced questions for the consultation.
- Watch any informational videos that you have been provided regarding your surgery. These can answer many of the questions you may have or may help you form new questions to follow up on the information you’ve been provided.
- Visit the practice website to glean any more information you may have missed, including before and after photos.
- After reading the website, reviewing the provided information packets, and watching any provided videos, take notes. Write down any additional questions you have about the procedures, recovery, risks, and outcomes before your consultation. Every question you have is important and valid! During your conversation with your surgeon, empower yourself by asking about their experience with this type of surgery, including complications, risks, and alternatives that accompany any procedure. Ask yourself if you feel comfortable and confident with this surgeon and their team.
- Research and Prepare Questions:
Remember, this is just a conversation – a simple exchange of information. Don’t feel pressured or intimidated. Your surgeon is there to provide you with information so that you can make the best, most informed decision about you and your body.
- Medical and Personal History:
- Be prepared to discuss your medical history and previous surgeries. Remember that your surgeon wants to keep you safe. The more they know about your medical state, the better.
- Set Clear (and Realistic) Goals
- You may not always know, but it can help to even vaguely understand what changes you want (or don’t want). Your doctor will work with you on a tailored surgical plan that can align your body with your goals safely and effectively!
- With your surgeon, hone and reflect on expectations from the surgery – it is always a balance between expectations and what is surgically possible so that you can have a positive post-operative experience.
- Bring Support
- Always bring a trusted friend, family member, or advocate for support during your surgical journey. Although they never have to administer medical care, loved ones can help you remember the information discussed during your initial visit.
During Your Consultation:
- Ask About the Procedure:
- After watching the provided videos, reading the information packets, and checking the website, any additional details about the surgery, including the steps, duration, and techniques used, can be discussed in more detail during your consultation.
- Discuss Risks and Complications:
- Understand the potential risks and complications involved in your surgery. Ask how the practice will help you manage problems if they occur.
- Ask about the likelihood of needing revision surgeries.
- Recovery and Aftercare:
- Although much of this information will already be provided, learn about the recovery timeline, activity restrictions, and any additional support you may need.
- Discuss pain management, signs of complications and follow-up appointments.
- Emotional and Mental Health Support:
- Inquire about support for mental health before and after surgery. You should already have a mental health provider who is available for you during the period surrounding your surgery.
- Ask for referrals to counselors or support groups if you’re not already connected.
After Your Consultation:
- Review Your Notes:
- Review the notes taken during the consultation to ensure you understand all the information.
- Follow Up:
- Don’t hesitate to contact your surgeon’s office with additional questions or if more clarification is needed prior to surgery. Many of our medical assistants (MAs), physician’s associates (PAs), and nurses are very well-trained in caring for patients before and after surgery and can help you navigate any remaining questions.
- Prepare for Surgery:
- Follow pre-operative instructions provided by your surgeon.
- Arrange for someone to help you during your recovery period. Managing post-surgery can be challenging, but your caretaker only needs to provide support, not advanced medical care.
- Ask your surgeon if their clinic has resources to connect you to support, such as in-home nursing care and social services, if you live on your own.
For more information about the surgical process, support resources, and more, visit our Patient Resources page. We wish you the best of luck in your gender-affirming surgery journey!